Charles Edward
"Turk" Cunningham, Jr.
1940-2013
Charles Edward "Turk" Cunningham, Jr., 72, a resident of Gulf Breeze, died on Monday, February 25, 2013 in Pensacola, FL from complications of surgery . He was born on July 18, 1940 in Fairfield, AL. He received a BS degree from Athens College and also held 2 Master's degrees from the USAF. He served in the United States Air Force for 27 yrs; with 3 tours in Vietnam and 2 tours in Misawa, Japan., where he served both as "Deputy Commander of Maintenance" and was responsible for the transitioning of the F-15s and F-16's. He also served as DCM at Eglin AFB, where he and Rose met. He ended his career as Director of Logistics at DMAF in Arizona. Turk was a long-time member of the Krewe of Wrecks, obtaining his position as King. During the last 21 years, he served as personal chef and personal assistant to his Rosie. They traveled and had wonderful adventures together. Their last trip was to Australia and New Zealand. Turk also volunteered with the USO at the Pensacola International Airport. He enjoyed retirement immensely by spending time with family and friends, going to the beach and reading. He was an avid Alabama fan and never missed a Saturday football game.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Helen Cunningham.
He is survived by his wife, Rose Cunningham; brother, Jim Cunningham(Margaret); Sister-in-law Mary Muratore (Dr. Terry); niece, Tappie Villane (Paul); great niece Kaycee Villane ; and nephews Scott and Andy Cunningham.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM, Sunday, March 3, 2013 at Rose Lawn Funeral Home in Gulf Breeze with Reverend Ellen Blaise officiating. Visitation will begin one hour prior to service time. Burial will occur at a later date in Barrancas National Cemetery/NAS Pensacola.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the USO at Pensacola Airport, simply do a spontaneous act of kindness for someone or just say "Roll Tide".
Arrangements entrusted to Rose Lawn Funeral Home of Gulf Breeze. You may offer condolences, share memories and sign the guestbook at www.roselawn-fh.com
Express your condolences in our guestbook at pnj.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Rose, Jim & Margaret, So sorry to hear of your loss. Hope that your faith, so many wonderful memories and love of your friends and family will comfort and sustain you through the difficult days ahead.
Jim & Julie
March 15, 2013
Rosie, Jim and Margaret we are so sorry to learn of Turk's passing. Our prayers are with ya'll as we will miss a true friend. We are blessed to know the entire Cunningham family.
Steve & Dorothy Mauriello, Big Pine Key
March 4, 2013
Rose, Jim and all The Cunninghams/loved ones of Turk- We will always remember Turk fondly, when he came in to get his haircut, he always had a great story of his travels with Rose, or upcoming plans.. Turk was a sweetheart of a guy, and he will be truly missed. I have a vision of him, in a booth with Mr. Charlie, having a beer- in Heaven! Our thoughtgs , prayers and Love are with you all. Danah & Gwen Gibson
March 4, 2013
Rose, I am so sorry for your loss. We will all miss Mr. Cunningham. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Delila Hancock
March 2, 2013
Rosie, Jim and Margaret: my heart goes out to all of you. Remembering the old times when Bobby D's was our late night living room. So many good times and they often involved the Cunningham brothers. Everyone who met Turk loved him. He will be forever in our hearts. Saying prayers for all of you...
Lynn Cieutat
March 2, 2013
May his incredible life be a reminder to us all that one person CAN make a difference. Our prayers are with your family.
Sandra and Frank Alvarado
March 2, 2013
You will get through this, as hard as it take your time, you will never get over it but the physical pain will subside with time, he will forever by your side.
julie mcarthur
March 1, 2013
To All of You, I send Love. Please know you are all in my prayers.Turk always had a smile on his face on Pensacola Beach. He will always be in our hearts. Love,Amy Drees
Amy Drees Keeley
March 1, 2013
Jim and Margaret.... Jack and I are so sorry to hear about Turk. We know how close you all were and what a loss it will be for your family. Please know we are thinking of you. HUGS
March 1, 2013
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